Self-centering mechanism, a clamping device for an electronic device and means for their integration

ABSTRACT

This invention comprises a self-centering mechanism for retaining an object, a clamping device for retaining an electronic device or an electronic device in a case, and means to integrate the devices in an adapter form. The structure of the self-centering mechanism allows for a compact device that is capable of fitting a wide range of differently sized and shaped objects. The clamping device allows for means to retain an electronic device or an electronic device in a case that is capable of fitting a wide range of differently sized and shaped electronic device. The self-centering mechanism and clamping device can also be integrated into the form of an adapter for various applications.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to a self-centering mechanism, aclamping device to retain an electronic device, and means for theirintegration in the form of an adapter. In particular, the presentinvention is directed to a self-centering mechanism and a clampingdevice to retain an electronic device, which each by its constructionand assembly provides for significant advantages over other approachescurrently available. Furthermore, the present invention is also directedto the means to integrate a self-centering mechanism with a clampingdevice to retain an electronic device, whereby the overall device is anadapter.

Self-centering of circular, cylindrical, square or any object with atleast one symmetrical cross-section is a useful feature when aligningany object to a device with an alignment axis. Self-centering mechanismsare advantageous in numerous applications, such as but not limited to,optics mounts, tool holders, work holders, adapters, or the like.Self-centering mechanisms are constructed with a functional range ofdiameters or sizes, such that objects within that range areself-centered related to the alignment axis, while objects outside therange are not guaranteed to be aligned. Almost all approaches forself-centering utilize a large structure, such that the outer dimensionsof the mechanism are much larger than the maximum sized self-centeredobject. One common type of mechanism utilizes various means andgeometries to extend multiple arms or holders from a large external ringportion towards the object (U.S. Pat. No. 3,841,647). These largermechanisms can be biased to also act as a clamp or have a lockingportion, whereby one or more arms or extenders must be pushed outwardsand then released. More common approaches use two opposing V-shapedholders that move against each other in a linear track, which requiresthe device to be very large to allow for the linear travel needed forthe V-shaped holders so that they can fit a range of differently sizedobjects (U.S. Pat. No. 8,550,413). There are also self-centeringmechanisms that try to allow for a more compact design but eitherutilize very complex geometries that are difficult to scale or addadditional contact points (U.S. Pat. No. 5,168,168), require a largenumber of linkages (U.S. Pat. No. 4,938,489) to achieve self-centeringmotion of the mechanism or are for only a specific object or extremelynarrow size range of objects. Furthermore, most of the self-centeringmechanisms lack an easy and intuitive means to actuate theself-centering clamp, especially with a low hand force required comparedto the amount of clamping force applied.

Notwithstanding all the known methodologies and construction for aself-centering mechanism however, it is believed that still furtheradvancements in the art are achievable. In particular, it is desirableto construct a self-centering device that is both compact, scalable tomeet requirements and contact points required, easily actuated by theuser and with minimal parts. Accordingly, it is desirable to provide aconstruction and methodology of a self-centering mechanism, thatovercomes the foregoing deficiencies in the prior art as well asachieves the aforementioned and below mentioned objects and advantages.

Regarding a clamping device for an electronic device, there are numerousprior art examples of devices and methods to retain an electronicdevice. Yet, many clamping devices for electronic devices are specificto the device, and cannot account for various differences in theelectronic device, such as when the electronic device is within a caseof various geometries. There are several approaches that retain anelectronic device over a range of sizes, but each method hasdeficiencies in ease of use, compact size, repeated usage andintegration with other devices for mounting or alignment applications.The most common is a two-sided linear style clamp, typically with a rackand pinion mechanism or a captive nut with threaded rods. In the case ofthe rack and pinion style mechanism, the user must hold their phone inthe area between the two clamps and then push the mechanism from bothsides until tight around their phone. As this is a discrete adjustmentmethod, depending on the outer dimensions of the electronic device, theelectronic device may be over-tight in the clamp or somewhat loose. Uponremoval from such a device, the user once again has to pull themechanism from one or more sides outwards to release their phone. Thismethod is awkward for the user, typically requires two hands and caninconsistently clamp the electronic devices within the specified sizerange. The captive nut with threaded rod approach is a continuousadjustment, however requires the device to be quite large for the travelrequired of the linear track within where the two clamping portions moveand the user to make a manual adjustment each time the device is loadingand unloaded. A second approach involves a tacky or sticky memberwherein the electronic device is held due to adhesion. The tacky orsticky member can be made from a selection of materials; however, theadhesion properties of these materials have a limited lifetime, or mustbe refreshed with water or another material. The adhesive nature alsomakes the device attract dust and dirt, and requires a lot of usermaintenance. The third approach is utilizing an X-shaped grip to holdthe electronic device (U.S. Pat. No. 8,544,161). The X-shaped clampremedies some of the previous prior art deficiencies, however, such adevice still has several disadvantages. In terms of the use, such anapproach could be difficult for the user to clamp their phone as itrequires pulling apart two biased opposing arms. Also, it's centralizedand thick mechanism does not allow for easy integration with some otherdevices, for example, but not limited to, a large optical elementconnected to the camera of the electronic device. Furthermore, thisapproach does not lend itself to an easy or integrated means ofalignment. For example, if the device needed to be aligned to anotherdevice or mechanism, this device would have to include additionalmechanisms to make an adjustment to the alignment in at least twodirections, thereby making the final device overcomplicated and bulky.

Therefore, it is desirable to construct a clamping device for anelectronic device or an electronic device within a case, for a largerange of sizes, which is compact in size, easily actuated by the user,designed for repeated usage, and allows for integration with otherdevices for mounting or alignment applications. Accordingly, it isdesirable to provide a construction and methodology of a novel clampingdevice for an electronic device, that overcomes the foregoingdeficiencies in the prior art as well as achieves the aforementioned andbelow mentioned objects and advantages.

The aforementioned self-centering mechanism and clamping device for anelectronic device can also be integrated into a single adapter device.Limited prior art examples exist for such a self-centering adapterdevice for an electronic device. A few prior art references utilizeself-centering mechanisms, such as a collet-style adapter or a commonradially biased three arm mechanism, which can retain and self-center arange of differently sized objects but can only do so over an extendedrange, nor provides means to combine with a range of differently sizedelectronic devices. The second prior art example demonstrates an adapterdevice, but each individual portion utilizes existing prior art meanswith the aforementioned deficiencies. Namely, the self-centeringmechanism uses two V-shaped clamps, and the clamping device for theelectronic device uses a two-sided linear clamp with a captive nut andthreaded rods. The obvious combination of known devices provides for anadapter, but does not overcome any of the known disadvantages with eachindividual device. The second prior art reference also does not includeany bias means, such that all clamping must be done manually and aretime-consuming as a result. No prior art exists for a compact andportable optical adapter which integrates a novel self-centeringmechanism and clamping device for an electronic device.

Accordingly, it is desirable to provide a construction and methodologyof a self-centering adapter for an electronic device, and an opticaladapter in particular, that overcomes the foregoing perceiveddeficiencies as well as achieves the aforementioned and below mentionedobjects and advantages.

OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide animproved self-centering mechanism for an object.

It is a particular object of the present invention to provide animproved self-centering mechanism which is biased so as to releasablyengage with a range of differently sized and shaped objects.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a clampingdevice for retaining an electronic device.

It is still another object of the present invention to provide animproved clamping device for retaining a wide range of differently sizedand shaped electronic devices.

Yet a further object of the present invention is to provide an improvedself-centering mechanism and a clamping device for electronic devicewhich are more intuitive and easy to use compared to prior art.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide integrationof the aforementioned self-centering mechanism and clamping device inthe form of an adapter.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide an improvedmethod of a self-centering mechanism, and a clamping device forretaining an electronic device.

Further objects and advantages of this invention will become moreapparent from a consideration of the drawings and ensuing description.

The invention accordingly comprises the features of construction,combination of elements and arrangement of parts and sequence of stepswhich will be exemplified in the construction, illustration anddescription hereinafter set forth, and the scope of the invention willbe indicated in the claims.

In a preferred embodiment, a self-centering mechanism to retain anobject is presented, wherein the self-centering mechanism comprises: amain body having an alignment axis and at least two pivot axes, a firstarm rotatable about the first pivot axis, and having at least onetangential member and at least one end, a second arm rotatable about thesecond pivot axis, and having at least one tangential member and atleast one end, a first tangential member, such that the first tangentialmember moves in a tangential manner with the tangential member of thefirst arm, a second tangential member, such that the second tangentialmember moves in a tangential manner with the tangential member of thesecond arm, and a third arm having at least one end, said third armbeing coupled to or integral with said first tangential member, whereinthe geometry of the tangential members of the first and second arm andfirst and second tangential members, are such that the ends of at leastthe first, second and third arm move in a self-centering manner.

Additionally presented is a clamping device for individually retainingat least one of an electronic device and an electronic device in a case,having at least a first, second and third side, wherein the clampingdevice comprises: a main body having a first surface, a first axis and apivot axis, a first holder member being rotatable about the pivot axisand having a first end, a bias member preferentially rotating the firstend of the first holder towards the first axis, a second holder memberhaving a first surface, such that when the electronic device is held inthe retained state, the third side is in at least partial contact withthe first surface of the main body, the first end of the first holderportion is in at least partial contact with the first side of theelectronic device, the first surface of the second holder portion is inat least partial contact with the second side of the electronic device,and the electronic device is retained due to the clamping force of thebias member that occurs between the first end of the first holder andthe first surface of the second holder portion.

In a particular embodiment, a self-centering adapter for retaining anoptical device or object to an electronic device or an electronic devicein a case having at least a first, second and third side and an opticalaxis, wherein the self-centering adapter comprises: a main body havingan alignment axis, at least three pivot axes, and a first surface, afirst arm rotatable about the first pivot axis, and having at least onetangential member and at least one end, a second arm rotatable about thesecond pivot axis, and having at least one tangential member and atleast one end, a first tangential member, such that the first tangentialmember moves in a tangential manner with the tangential member of thefirst arm, a second tangential member, such that the second tangentialmember moves in a tangential manner with the tangential member of thesecond arm, a third arm having at least one end, said third arm beingmechanically connected to or a part of said first tangential member, afirst holder member being rotatable about the third pivot axis andhaving a first end, a bias member preferentially rotating the first endof the first holder towards the alignment axis, a second holder memberhaving a first surface, such that when the electronic device is held inthe retained state, the third surface is in at least partial contactwith the first surface of the main body, the first end of the firstholder portion is in contact with the first side of the electronicdevice, the first surface of the second holder portion is in contactwith the second side of the electronic device, and the electronic deviceis retained due to the clamping force of the bias member that occursbetween the first end of the first holder and the first surface of thesecond holder portion, wherein the geometry of the tangential members ofthe first and second arm, and first and second tangential members, areselected such that the ends of at least the first, second and third armreleasably engage with an optical device in a self-centering manner,such that when the electronic device is held in the retained and alignedstate so that the optical axis of the electronic device is aligned tothe alignment axis of the main body, the electronic device canreleasably engage with an optical device or object in a self-centeringmanner relative to the optical axis of the electronic device.

A self-centering method to retain an object is presented, wherein theself-centering mechanism comprises: a main body having an alignment axisand at least two pivot axes, a first arm rotatable about the first pivotaxis, and having at least one surface and at least one end, a second armrotatable about the second pivot axis, and having at least one surfaceand at least one end, a first tangential member, having at least onesurface, said surface of the first tangential member being in tangentialcontact with the said surface of the first member, a second tangentialmember, having at least one surface, said surface of the secondtangential member being in tangential contact with the said surface ofthe second member, a third arm having at least one end, said third armbeing mechanically connected to or a part of said first tangentialmember, and at least one bias member, and wherein the bias memberpreferentially rotates at least one end of a member towards the centralaxis, wherein the shapes of the surfaces of the first and second arm,and first and second tangential members, are selected such that the endsof at least the first, second and third arm releasably engage with anobject in a self-centering manner, wherein the method compromises thesteps of: pressing the first and second arms in conjunction, such thatpressing both arms, causes the ends of at least the first, second andthird arms to move away from the alignment axis in a self-centeringmanner, inserting the object into the self-centering mechanism,releasing both the first and second arms, such that the ends of at leastthe first, second and third arms to move towards the alignment axis in aself-centering manner, and then releasably engage with the object in aself-centering manner.

Lastly, a clamping method for retaining an electronic device or anelectronic device in a case is presented, wherein the method utilizes aclamping device for individually retaining at least one of an electronicdevice and an electronic device in a case having at least a first,second and third side, wherein the clamping device comprises: a mainbody having a first surface, a first axis and a pivot axis, a firstholder member being rotatable about the pivot axis and having a firstend, a bias member preferentially rotating the first end of the firstholder towards the first axis, a second holder member having a firstsurface, such that when the electronic device is held in the retainedstate, the third surface is in at least partial contact with the firstsurface of the main body, the first end of the holder portion is incontact with the first side of the electronic device, the first surfaceof the second holder portion is in contact with the second side of theelectronic device, and the electronic device is retained due to theclamping force of the bias member that occurs between the first end ofthe first holder and the first surface of the second holder portion,wherein the method compromises the steps of retracting the first holderportion away from the first axis of the main body, placing the thirdsurface of the electronic device in at least partial contact with thefirst surface of the main body, and releasing the first holder portionsuch that it can move towards the first axis of the main body.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a top plan view of a first preferred embodiment of theself-centering mechanism of the self-centering mechanism constructed inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 1B is a top plan view of a first preferred embodiment of theself-centering mechanism constructed in accordance with the presentinvention releasably engaged with a smaller circular object in aself-centering manner;

FIG. 1C is a top plan view of a first preferred embodiment of theself-centering mechanism constructed in accordance with the presentinvention releasably engaged with a larger circular object in aself-centering manner;

FIG. 2A is a top plan view of a second preferred embodiment of theself-centering mechanism constructed in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 2B is a top plan view of a second preferred embodiment of theself-centering mechanism constructed in accordance with the presentinvention releasably engaged with a smaller circular object in aself-centering manner;

FIG. 2C is a top plan view of a second preferred embodiment of theself-centering mechanism constructed in accordance with the presentinvention releasably engaged with a larger circular object in aself-centering manner;

FIG. 3A is a top plan view of a third preferred embodiment of theself-centering mechanism constructed in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 3B is a top plan view of a third preferred embodiment of theself-centering mechanism constructed in accordance with the presentinvention releasably engaged with a smaller circular object in aself-centering manner;

FIG. 3C is a top plan view of a third preferred embodiment of theself-centering mechanism constructed in accordance with the presentinvention releasably engaged with a larger circular object in aself-centering manner;

FIG. 4 is a top plan view of a fourth preferred embodiment of theself-centering mechanism constructed in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 5 is a top plan view of a fifth preferred embodiment of theself-centering mechanism constructed in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 6 is a top plan view of another preferred embodiment of theself-centering mechanism constructed in accordance with the presentinvention utilizing multiple bias members;

FIG. 7A is an inset view of the second preferred embodiment of theself-centering mechanism constructed in accordance with the presentinvention releasably engaged with a square object in a self-centeringmanner;

FIG. 78 is an inset view of the second preferred embodiment of theself-centering mechanism constructed in accordance with the presentinvention releasably engaged with a diamond shaped object in aself-centering manner;

FIG. 7C is an inset view of the second preferred embodiment of theself-centering mechanism constructed in accordance with the presentinvention releasably engaged with a polygonal object in a self-centeringmanner;

FIG. 7D is an inset view of the second preferred embodiment of theself-centering mechanism constructed in accordance with the presentinvention releasably engaged with an elliptical object in aself-centering manner;

FIG. 8A is a top plan view of a first preferred embodiment of theclamping device for an electronic device constructed in accordance withthe present invention, depicted with a smaller sized rectangular phonein the retained state;

FIG. 8B is a top plan view of a first preferred embodiment of theclamping device for an electronic device constructed in accordance withthe present invention, depicted with a larger sized rectangular phone inthe retained state;

FIG. 8C is a top plan view of a first preferred embodiment of theclamping device for an electronic device constructed in accordance withthe present invention, depicted with a smaller sized curved phone in theretained state;

FIG. 8D is a top plan view of a first preferred embodiment of theclamping device for an electronic device constructed in accordance withthe present invention, depicted with a larger sized curved phone in theretained state;

FIG. 8E is a top plan view of a first preferred embodiment of theclamping device for an electronic device constructed in accordance withthe present invention, depicted without an electronic device;

FIG. 9A is a top plan view of a second preferred embodiment of theclamping device for an electronic device constructed in accordance withthe present invention, depicted with a smaller sized tablet in theretained state;

FIG. 9B is a top plan view of a second preferred embodiment of theclamping device for an electronic device constructed in accordance withthe present invention, depicted with a larger sized tablet in theretained state;

FIG. 9C is a top plan view of a second preferred embodiment of theclamping device for an electronic device constructed in accordance withthe present invention, depicted without an electronic device;

FIG. 10A is a top plan view of a third preferred embodiment of theclamping device for an electronic device constructed in accordance withthe present invention, depicted with a smaller sized phone in theretained state;

FIG. 10B is a top plan view of a third preferred embodiment of theclamping device for an electronic device constructed in accordance withthe present invention, depicted with a larger sized phone in theretained state;

FIG. 10C is a top plan view of a third preferred embodiment of theclamping device for an electronic device constructed in accordance withthe present invention, depicted without an electronic device;

FIG. 11A is a top plan view of a fourth preferred embodiment of theclamping device for an electronic device constructed in accordance withthe present invention, depicted with a smaller sized phone in theretained state;

FIG. 11B is a top plan view of a fourth preferred embodiment of theclamping device for an electronic device constructed in accordance withthe present invention, depicted with a larger sized phone in theretained state;

FIG. 11C is a top plan view of a fourth preferred embodiment of theclamping device for an electronic device constructed in accordance withthe present invention, depicted without an electronic device;

FIG. 12A is a top plan view of a first preferred embodiment of theself-centering adapter for an electronic device constructed inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 12B is a top plan view of a first preferred embodiment of theself-centering adapter for an electronic device constructed inaccordance with the present invention, releasably engaged with a smallercircular object in a self-centering manner;

FIG. 12C is a top plan view of a first preferred embodiment of theself-centering adapter for an electronic device constructed inaccordance with the present invention, releasably engaged with a largercircular object in a self-centering manner;

FIG. 13A is a top plan view of a first preferred embodiment of theself-centering adapter for an electronic device constructed inaccordance with the present invention, depicted with a phone in theretained state and releasably engaged with a smaller circular object ina self-centering manner;

FIG. 13B is a top plan view of a first preferred embodiment of theself-centering adapter for an electronic device constructed inaccordance with the present invention, depicted with a phone in theretained state and releasably engaged with a larger circular object in aself-centering manner;

FIG. 14A is a top plan view of a first preferred embodiment of theself-centering adapter for an electronic device constructed inaccordance with the present invention, depicted with a tablet in theretained state and releasably engaged with a smaller circular object ina self-centering manner;

FIG. 14B is a top plan view of a first preferred embodiment of theself-centering adapter for an electronic device constructed inaccordance with the present invention, depicted with a tablet in theretained state and releasably engaged with a larger circular object in aself-centering manner;

FIG. 15 is an isometric view of a first preferred embodiment of theself-centering adapter for an electronic device constructed inaccordance with the present invention, depicted with a phone in theretained state and releasably engaged with the eyepiece of a spottingscope in a self-centering manner;

FIG. 16 is an isometric view of a first preferred embodiment of theself-centering adapter for an electronic device constructed inaccordance with the present invention, depicted with a phone in theretained state and releasably engaged with the eyepiece of a telescopein a self-centering manner;

FIG. 17A is a front plane view of a first preferred embodiment of theself-centering adapter for an electronic device constructed inaccordance with the present invention, depicted with a phone in theretained state and in the portrait orientation and releasably engagedwith the eyepiece of a binocular in a self-centering manner;

FIG. 17B is a front plane view of a first preferred embodiment of theself-centering adapter for an electronic device constructed inaccordance with the present invention, depicted with a phone in theretained state and in the landscape orientation and releasably engagedwith the eyepiece of a binocular in a self-centering manner;

FIG. 18 is an isometric view of a first preferred embodiment of theself-centering adapter for an electronic device constructed inaccordance with the present invention, depicted with a phone in theretained state and releasably engaged with the eyepiece of a microscopein a self-centering manner;

Like reference numerals in the various Figures illustrate like parts,but not every part in every figure is so identified.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

As set forth in the Background Section above, and as will be appreciatedbelow, the present invention is primarily directed to a self-centeringmechanism, a clamping device retaining an electronic device and means oftheir integration through the form of an adapter device. It will be madeclear from the below description of the construction of each device,that each device is unique and not obvious in view of existing priorart.

The first preferred embodiment of the self-centering mechanism depictedin FIG. 1A, depicts the first arm (14) and second arm (17) rotateablycoupled to the main body at their respective pivot axes (12, 13). Thethird arm (25) also is rotateably coupled to the main body at a thirdpivot axis (24). The first and second tangential members (20, 22) movetangentially with the tangential member of the first arm (16) and thetangential member of the second arm (19). In this embodiment of theself-centering mechanism, the tangential movement is accomplished viatangential contact between the respective sets of surfaces (16 and 21,19 and 23). The third arm is coupled to the first and second tangentialmember by an intermediate member. In this first embodiment of theself-centering mechanism, the intermediate member couples to the thirdarm by another tangential contact between surfaces. However, thiscoupling could also be achieved by various methods, such as but notlimited to: mechanical connectors, fasteners, pins, or additionalintermediate parts.

The first embodiment of the self-centering mechanism demonstrates oneexample of the geometry of each tangential member that was designed suchthat the ends of the first, second and third arm move in aself-centering manner about the alignment axis 11 (shown out of theplane in FIG. 1-7). In this embodiment of the self-centering mechanism,wherein the tangential members are surfaces, the specific arcs andspline geometry can be specifically designated to achieve theself-centering result. However, for such a tangential contact method,strict attention must be paid to the steepness and derivative propertiesof the curves, such that the two surfaces slide smoothly andconsistently so as to achieve ideal functionality. Depending on therequired constraints of the construction, such as physical size andmaximum self-centered object size, the geometry can be tailored to fit arange of differently sized and shaped objects. However, there is anideal surface shape and function that maximizes the range of sizes ofobjects that can be self-centering, while also minimizing the physicalsize of the mechanism, given a known maximum self-centered object size.Also, the distances between the end of the first arm and second arm totheir respective pivot axes, and the position of the pivot axes relativeto the alignment axis are based upon the maximum sized object that canbe releasably engaged in a self-centering manner by the self-centeringmechanism. Also, the self-centering mechanism can utilize at least oneplane of symmetry that includes the alignment axis. Therefore, once amaximum object size requirement is set, the geometry and construction ofthe self-centering mechanism can be determined and optimized to theideal case of maximizing the size range of objects.

FIGS. 1B-1C show the first preferred embodiment of the self-centeringmechanism releasably engaged with a smaller cylindrical or circularobject and a larger cylindrical or circular object respectively.Depending on the placement of the pivot axes, 12, 13, and 24 on the mainbody 10, the range of objects can be adjusted to the desiredspecifications, namely a maximum self-centered object size. Thecorrelation between the maximum sized object that is self-centered onthe main body 10 relative to the pivot axes can be clearly viewed inFIG. 1C.

The first preferred embodiment of the self-centering mechanism alsodemonstrates the novel construction of the self-centering adapter, whichinherently is designed for easy user actuation. By simple extension ofthe first and second arms, the user can apply pressure placed ontoopposing sections of the first and second arm 14, 17. There can also becut-out shapes, contours or elastomeric coatings or members placed onthe arms to allow for more ergonomic and intuitive use. The pressing ofopposing arms is a natural gripping motion, and is convenient for theuser. Furthermore, due to the bias member 29 that preferentially rotatesthe ends of the arms towards the alignment axis, upon user release ofthe arms; the object is releasably retained in a self-centering manner.In this example, the single compression spring supplies a linear forcewhich is translated to the ends of the first, second and third arms,which provides a strong clamping force that retains the object. Theself-centering mechanism is easily actuated by user and allows for thequickest on-off compared to any prior art. There are no screws to adjustuntil tighten and then loosen, or several levers to pull then lock, thenunlock etc. The user simply pushes the two arms together, places overthe object, then releases. In typical use, this process can take merelya second or two. It can be highly repeatable in accuracy in theplacement and usage of the presented self-centering mechanism. Also, along lever arm can be used, such that the user presses the arms togetherallows for significant leverage. This means that even with a very strongbias member with a large bias force, the user does not need to provideequal or near equal force to actuate the device, but instead a smallfraction of the force. Prior art examples with bias members do notalways allow for low human force with a large force bias member, andtypically are very hard to open and actuate by the user, which makesusage more frustrating and time-consuming.

The second preferred embodiment of the self-centering mechanism FIG. 2Aeliminates parts from the first preferred embodiment of theself-centering mechanism, namely, the intermediate members coupling thethird arm to the tangential members, and the additional tangentialmember parts—in this case, the first and second tangential members 20,22 are a part of the third arm 25 and fourth arms 31. The third andfourth arms are pivotally coupled at pivot axis 24, and can be biased byan additional member, such as but not limited to, one or more torsionalsprings. Furthermore, the motion of the third and fourth arms can befurther coupled to guarantee equal motion, such that the ends of thearms move in a self-centering manner, such as but not limited to, lineartracks, gears, mechanical connectors, pins, or intermediate members. Thesecond preferred embodiment of the self-centering mechanism alsodemonstrates a fourth end, which helps to further secure the object,whereas all prior art typically is limited to only three ends due to theinherent construction. Yet it should be noted that this approach iseasily scalable in regards to the number of ends, and maximumself-centered object size, based upon the desired requirements of thedevice.

FIG. 2B and FIG. 2C demonstrates that the compact size of the device,especially in the radial direction, where it can become more compactwhen retaining a small object, yet expand to fit the largest object. Inthis specific embodiment, the characteristic size range is 20 mm-58 mm.In this case, the characteristic size can correspond to a diameter,length, diagonal or any characteristic size feature of cross-section ofthe object. Also, the device has non-radially symmetric functionalshape, which allows for the actuation to be readily accessible to theuser, and has more of a generally rectangular form which is ideal tomate the mechanism with other devices. However, the orientation of theself-centering device is arbitrary, given that the self-centeringmechanism can function in any orientation. Even though only one possibleorientation in shown in the figures presented, the mechanism can berotated by any amount, for example, 45, 90, 180, 270 degrees or anycombination thereof, and achieve the same results. Furthermore,depending on the application and the room available, the device may beeasily rotated to present the actuation area of the first and secondarms more readily to the user.

The third preferred embodiment of the self-centering mechanism FIGS.3A-3C is a slight permutation of the second preferred embodiment of theself-centering mechanism, where a simple intermediate member is utilizedto guarantee equal motion of the third and fourth arms, without a largeincrease in device size or complexity. This centering member 34 can beutilized with a torsional spring such that the ends move inself-centering manner relative to the alignment axis 11. In FIG. 3B, thetangential surface sets 16, 21 and 19, 23 are the means of thetangential motion between the first arm and first tangential member, andthe second arm and second tangential member, however, the means are justan example of possible tangential members, whereas these tangentialmembers could be substituted for another means, such as but not limitedto, gears or rack and pinion components. The use of surfaces as thetangential members are used as the primary example throughout theremainder of the figures, solely due to the prevalence in choice ofdesign due to their lower cost to manufacture and assembly compared toother tangential members.

Additional embodiment of the self-centering mechanisms are shown inFIGS. 4, 5 and 6, depicting other coupling between the third or fourtharms and the tangential members, as well as the use of additional biasmembers 29 depending on the clamping forces required. The biasedmechanism can be achieved by one or more members, such as but notlimited to, compression springs, extension springs, torsional springs,constant force springs, material based springs, cantilever, leaf spring,elastomeric element, gas spring, pneumatic element or a combinationthereof. All of the embodiments shown of the self-centering mechanismcan additionally include a cover, which hides most of the mechanism foraesthetic reasons.

FIG. 1-6 have depicted the retaining of circular or cylindrical shapedobjects, however, the self-centering mechanism can releasably engaged ina self-centering manner with a variety of objects, where the objectshaving an alignment axis, and at least one cross-section of the objecthaving two planes of symmetry. FIG. 7A-D inset views show various casesof objects, square, diamond, polygon, and ellipse, respectively, whichsatisfy the self-centering requirement. In this example, the ends meetat least tangentially with the objects. However, it should also be notedthat the shape out of the plane can be of various sizes and shapes, suchthat a cylindrical object may also be tapered or have a curved shapedout of the plane. The ends, 15, 18, 26, 32, can be constructed toconform to a variety of shapes, such that the ends preferably include asoft to medium stiffness elastomeric coating or member. The elastomericportion allows for additional grip without marring of the surface of theobject and for the self-centering mechanism to conform and securelyretain objects with various in-plane and out-of-plane shapes.Furthermore, the elastomeric portion allows for minimal vibration to beplaced on the object when grasped by the self-centering device. Forinstance, in the case of a telescope eyepiece in the self-centeringmechanism, any vibrations from self-centering mechanism could beimparted to the telescope and would be detrimental to the image quality.However, in this instance, the elastomeric or rubber portions couldadditionally act as a vibration damper. A preferred embodiment of theelastomeric portion is a cylindrical rubber with an inner taperedcut-out, which mates with a tapered plastic portion, such that thedegree of conformance is linearly changing in the out-of-planedirection. Therefore, such an embodiment of the elastomeric element canbe designed, such that most objects that are straight in theout-of-plane direction are retained properly, but also objects which aretapered or expanding outwards in the out-of-plane direction can beretained strongly. Additionally, the rubber components can easilyinclude one or more ‘glow in the dark’ ingredients in its chemicalcomposition, such that during dark or low-light situations, the user caneasily distinguish where to place the self-centering mechanism.

The alignment axis of the self-centering mechanism can be placed at truecenter or intentionally offset due to the weight of the objects ordevices connected to the self-centering mechanism. In such cases, theremay be a weight that biases the self-centering mechanism towards aspecific direction, such as the weight of an extremely heavy object. Inthis case, if a known range of weights are known at the time of thedesign, the self-centering mechanism can be designed to account forthis, by offsetting the alignment axis such that the heavy objects ordevices do not result in an off-centered object, but instead stillproperly retain the object in a self-centered manner.

The first preferred embodiment of the clamping device for an electronicdevice 40 is depicted in FIG. 8A-D. The electronic device can be withina case or bare, such that either the case contain the electronic deviceor the electronic device itself has a first side 41, second side 42 (notshown), and third side 43. The main body of the clamping device 36includes at least one pivot axis 39, which can be in the plane shown inFIG. 8A or out of the plane. The first holder portion 44 rotates aboutthe pivot axis, with a bias member preferentially rotating the first endof the first holder portion 45 until it makes partial contact with thefirst side 41. The first holder portion can also include a lever 48 forease of user actuation of the first holder portion, which may include arubber or textured coating or member for ease of use. The second holderportion 46 includes a first surface 47 which makes at least partialcontact with the third side 43. The first surface of the main body 37 isin contact with the second side, in this case, the rear of the phone,which is not shown from the depicted plane while the electronic deviseis in the retained state. FIG. 8A-D show a smaller rectangularelectronic device, a larger rectangular electronic device, a smallercurved electronic device, and a larger curved electronic device in theretained state, which in this example is a phone. The first end 45 wouldbe shaped and constructed to make contact with the electronic device orthe case retaining the electronic device, such as but not limited to: acircular or cylindrical member, an elastomeric coating or member, or anadditional member with a surface on an additional pivot. In these cases,the partial contact could be tangential, at least tangential andconforming, or between surfaces. The first end could also be contouredin an out-of-plane direction with an outwardly tapered or curved inshape, so as to more ideally retain the device. Furthermore, an end withan elastomeric coating or element would aid the device in retainingelectronic devices with out-of-plane curves or shapes. The second holderportion can also include an elastomeric coating or element, so that thefirst surface can conform to the in-plane and out-of-plane curvature ofthe electronic device, or case of the electronic device.

FIG. 8E shows the compact size of the device, which is highly portable,or could be easily configured to attach to an another device ormechanism, such as but not limited to an external mounting surface, aself-centering mechanism, a ball joint, a suction cup, an adhesivemember, a clamp, or a tripod. The first embodiment is an example of adevice that fit most phones up to 3.8″ wide. FIG. 9A/B demonstrate thescalability of the device, such that a second preferred embodiment ofthe device can be utilized to hold a range of sizes of large objectslike a tablet, wherein FIG. 9A shows a small tablet, and FIG. 9B shows alarge tablet.

A third preferred embodiment of the clamping device FIG. 10A-C allowsfor the positioning of the electronic device in a first direction,utilizing a means for a linear adjustment 50. In this example, the meansfor a linear adjustment is a linear track, but this may be accomplishedby various means, including but not limited to, a linear track, athreaded rod, a rack and pinion, a discrete track, a curved track, oneor more telescopic members, or a combination thereof. In this use tomake a positional alignment of the electronic device, it is advantageousto have at least one lock point 49 or locking mechanism to hold thesecond holder portion in the desired position. The locking point orlocking mechanism could be a variety of locks or clamps, such as but notlimited to, a screw, a cam lever clamp, alligator clamp, vice clamp,hook clamps, pull clamp, snap clips, snap-fit, bayonet clamp, circularclamp, clamping collar, hose clamps, C-clamps, bar clamps, band camps,corner camps, magnetic clamps, spring clamp, toggle clamps, wedgeclamps, swing clamps, toe clamps, or any combination thereof. Thissecond preferred embodiment of the clamping device with a linearadjustment of the second holder portion can be used for severalapplications, such as to further extend the range of electronic devicesor cases retaining an electronic device that can be clamped in thedevice, or to align a part of the electronic device such the camera orillumination means to another device or surface.

A fourth preferred embodiment of the clamping device FIG. 11A-C allowsfor the positioning of the electronic device in a second directionbeyond the second preferred embodiment by utilizing a third holderportion 51 with a first surface of the third holder portion 52 makingpartial contact with at least one side of the electronic device or case.Any additional holders could be of various geometries, including but notlimited to, a straight holder like the second holder, a cylindricalholder, or a corner holder, or a curved U- or V-shaped holder or anycombination thereof. In this embodiment, the user just retracts thefirst holder portion using the lever, then can either slide theelectronic device down into or place it on the clamping device, suchthat the second and third portions make at least partial contact withthe electronic device or case, then releases so the first holder portionretains the electronic device. The fourth embodiment is an example of adevice that fits most phones up to 3.8″ wide and up to 5.5″ long. Withan additional means of linear adjustment and an additional lock pointfor the third holder portion, the electronic device can be retained andaligned to another device using this clamping device.

The self-centering mechanism and the clamping device for retaining anelectronic device, can be integrated in the form of an adapter device asshown in FIG. 12A. In this example of the adapter, the third preferredembodiment of the self-centering mechanism FIG. 3 and the fourthpreferred embodiment of clamping device FIG. 11 have been integrated.The main body of each can be integrated in a single component tominimize parts, and can minimize vignetting when used as an opticaladapter. In this first embodiment of the adapter device, the thirdholder portion of the clamping device is shown as a telescopic membercoupled to the main body, corresponding to a preferred compactconstruction. The self-centering mechanism is unaffected by theadditional members of the clamping device, and can still releasablyengage with objects in a self-centering manner as shown in FIG. 12B/C.The first and second holder portions can be placed above the pivot axesof the first and second arms, such that there is no conflict with theuser actuation of the arms. FIG. 13A/B shows the same views as FIG.12B/C but with the electronic device in the retained state. Theself-centering mechanism and the clamping device can be coupled invarious orientations with the same results. However, this orientation ispreferred for its compact form. The rectangular shape of theself-centering device makes it ideal for this integrated adapter, as theentire device is only slightly larger than the parts retained by theadapter, namely, the object and electronic device. Additionally, themain body can be shaped to combine the two devices, for example, acut-out for the first arm 44 shown in FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B. Therefore,such an adapter is a very compact and novel construction, which canbiasedly self-center a variety of differently sized and shapes objects,whilst aligning such an object to a variety of differently sized andshaped electronic device or cases retaining an electronic device.

The adapter device can be used for several applications, but mostnotably as an optical adapter for electronic devices, such as but notlimited to phones or tablets, specifically those having a camera orillumination means. In this application, the main body can include acut-out or window such that light can pass between the electronic deviceand the optic. Due to the compact size of each individual device, andtheir inherent construction that allow for easy integration with otherdevices, the resulting adapter can be compact in size with a reductionin parts from the combined number of parts from each device. Such anadapter device for connecting an electronic device having a camera orillumination means to a range of optical devices, including but notlimited to spotting scopes (FIG. 15), a monocular, binoculars (FIG.17A/B), riflescopes, telescopes (FIG. 16), microscopes (FIG. 18), aslit-lamp microscope, night vision scopes, a lens, a magnifier, lensassemblies, telephoto lenses, loupes, scopes, fiber optics, endoscope,borescope, viewfinders, periscope, door scope, filters, beamsplitters,beam expanders, mirrors, kaleidoscope, prisms, polarizers or any outerhousing for any of the aforementioned items. This adaptor deviceprovides a self-centering and fitted connection between the electronicand optical device, so that the optical axes are aligned so that theuser may take images or video on their electronic device through theoptical device. In the pictorial examples FIG. 15-18, the self-centeringmechanism is attached to the eyepiece or ocular end of the given device,and aligned to the camera of the electronic device. The user may placethe adapter on the eyepiece or ocular end of the optical device invarious orientations, as the self-centering mechanism will work in allorientations, as some may advantageous for photography and ease of use,such as portrait or landscape orientation as shown in FIG. 17A-17Brespectively. In these optical applications, the user can use theirelectronic device as an economical viewfinder, to take or recordpictures or video, or to view the image through the optical deviceremotely using another electronic device using available screen sharingapplications. Also, there is no need to realign the device for differenttypes of optics, so the user can take pictures through a microscope witha small eyepiece, then a spotting scope with a large eyepiece, etc.without adjustments needed.

While the invention has been particularly shown and described withrespect to preferred embodiments thereof, it will be understood by thoseskilled in the art that changes in form and details may be made thereinwithout departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.

1-34. (canceled)
 35. A self-centering mechanism to retain an objecthaving a center, wherein the self-centering mechanism comprises: a mainbody having an alignment axis, a first arm rotatable about the firstpivot axis, and having at least one end, a second arm rotatable aboutthe second pivot axis, and having at least one end, a third armrotatable about the third pivot axis, and having at least one end,wherein the geometry of at least the first arm, second arm and thirdarm, are such that at least the first end of each of at least the first,second, and third arm move in a self-centering manner about thealignment axis to retain and align an object.
 36. The self-centeringmechanism as claimed in claim 35, wherein at least each of the firstarm, second arm and third arm, has at least one tangential member. 37.The self-centering mechanism as claimed in claim 35, wherein the fixedalignment axis is parallel to at least one of the first pivot, secondpivot axis, or third pivot axis, and at least the first pivot, secondaxis and third axis are all mutually parallel.
 38. The self-centeringmechanism as claimed in claim 35, wherein the distances between the endof the first arm and second arm to their respective first and secondpivot axes, and the position of the first and second pivot axes relativeto the fixed alignment axis are based upon the maximum sized object thatcan be releasably retained and aligned by the self-centering mechanism.39. The self-centering mechanism as claimed in claim 36, wherein atleast the first of the first arm tangential member and second armtangential member are surfaces, and the surfaces move in a tangentialmanner due to the surfaces being in tangential contact with at least oneother tangential member.
 40. The self-centering mechanism as claimed inclaim 35, wherein the first and second arms each include at least onelever, such that pressing the first lever of the first arm and the firstlever of the second arm causes at least the first end of each of atleast the first, and second arms move away from the alignment axis in aself-centering manner.
 41. The self-centering mechanism as claimed inclaim 38, wherein the first and second arms are mechanically connected,such that upon release of both arms, at least the first end of each ofat least the first, and second arms move towards the alignment axis in aself-centering manner.
 42. The self-centering mechanism as claimed inclaim 35, wherein the self-centering mechanism further comprises atleast one bias member, and wherein the bias member preferentiallyrotates at least the first end of at least the first or second armtowards the fixed alignment axis.
 43. The self-centering mechanism asclaimed in claim 40, wherein the bias member provides the clamping forceto retain the object.
 44. The self-centering mechanism as claimed inclaim 35, wherein the alignment axis of the main body is offset toaccount for a range of weights that may bias the self-centeringmechanism, such that the mechanism while supporting a weight within therange, still engages with an object in a self-centering mechanism. 45.The self-centering mechanism as claimed in claim 35, wherein the mainbody further comprises at least three pivot axes, such that the thirdarm is rotatable about the third pivot axis.
 46. The self-centeringmechanism as claimed in claim 35, wherein the self-centering mechanismfurther comprises a fourth arm, said fourth arm being mechanicallyconnected to or part of said second tangential member.
 47. Theself-centering mechanism as claimed in claim 35, wherein theself-centering mechanism further comprises a fourth arm, and wherein thefourth arm is rotatable about the third pivot axis.
 48. Theself-centering mechanism as claimed in claim 47, wherein the third armand fourth arm are connected via a centering mechanism, wherein thecentering member retains the third and fourth arm, such that at leastthe respective first ends of the third and fourth arms moveequidistantly from the fixed alignment axis.
 49. The self-centeringmechanism as claimed in claim 42, wherein the bias member is a torsionalspring.
 50. The self-centering mechanism as claimed in claim 39, whereinthe surfaces are smooth curved surfaces.
 51. The self-centeringmechanism as claimed in claim 35, wherein the surfaces of the first andsecond tangential members are gear surfaces.
 52. The self-centeringmechanism as claimed in claim 35, wherein the object is an opticalobject or device having an optical axis, wherein the self-centeringmechanism engages with the optical device in a self-centering mannerwith respect to the optical axis of the optical device.
 53. Theself-centering mechanism as claimed in claim 35, wherein the geometrythat allows at least the first end of each of at least the first,second, and third arm move in a self-centering manlier are surfaces. 54.A self-centering mechanism to align and retain an object having acentral axis, wherein the self-centering mechanism comprises: a mainbody having an alignment axis, at least three arms each having at leastone end and at least one non-planar surface, wherein at least the firstnon-planar surface of at least the first arm and second arm movetangentially to actuate the mechanism such that the object is retainedto the main body with the central axis aligned to the alignment axis.55. An optical adapter for retaining an optical device or optical objectto an electronic device, wherein the optical adapter comprises: aself-centering mechanism that is releasably biased to retain the opticaldevice or optical object in a self-centering manner, a clamping portionfor individually retaining at least one of an electronic device and anelectronic device in a case.
 56. An optical adapter as claimed in claim55, wherein the combination of the self-centering mechanism and clampingportion for individually retaining at least one of an electronic deviceand an electronic device in a case having at least a first, second andthird side and an optical axis, comprises: a main body having analignment axis, at least three pivot axes, and a first surface, a firstarm rotatable about the first pivot axis, and having at least onetangential member and at least one end, a second arm rotatable about thesecond pivot axis, and having at least one tangential member and atleast one end, a first tangential member, such that the first tangentialmember moves in a tangential manner with the tangential member of thefirst arm, a second tangential member, such that the second tangentialmember moves in a tangential manner with the tangential member of thesecond arm, a third arm having at least one end, said third arm beingmechanically connected to or a part of said first tangential member, afirst holder member being rotatable about the third pivot axis andhaving a first end, a bias member preferentially rotating the first endof the first holder towards the alignment axis, a second holder memberhaving a first surface, such that when the electronic device is held inthe retained state, the third surface is in at least partial contactwith the first surface of the main body, the first end of the firstholder portion is in contact with the first side of the electronicdevice, the first surface of the second holder portion is in contactwith the second side of the electronic device, and the electronic deviceis retained due to the clamping force of the bias member that occursbetween the first end of the first holder and the first surface of thesecond holder portion. wherein the geometry of the tangential members ofthe first and second arm, and first and second tangential members, areselected such that the ends of at least the first, second and third armreleasably engage with an optical device in a self-centering manner,such that when the electronic device is held in the retained and alignedstate so that the optical axis of the electronic device is aligned tothe alignment axis of the main body, the electronic device canreleasably engage with an optical device or object in a self-centeringmanner relative to the optical axis of the electronic device.
 57. Aself-centering method to retain an object, wherein the self-centeringmechanism comprises: a main body having an alignment axis and at leasttwo pivot axes, a first aim rotatable about the first pivot axis, andhaving at least one surface and at least one end, a second arm rotatableabout the second pivot axis, and having at least one surface and atleast one end, a first tangential member, having at least one surface,said surface of the first tangential member being in tangential contactwith the said surface of the first member, a second tangential member,having at least one surface, said surface of the second tangentialmember being in tangential contact with the said surface of the secondmember, a third arm having at least one end, said third arm beingmechanically connected to or a part of said first tangential member, andat least one bias member, and wherein the bias member preferentiallyrotates at least one end of a member towards the central axis, whereinthe shapes of the surfaces of the first and second arm, and first andsecond tangential members, are selected such that the ends of at leastthe first, second and third arm releasably engage with an object in aself-centering manner, wherein the method compromises the steps of:pressing the first and second arms in conjunction, such that pressingboth arms causes the ends of at least the first, second and third armsto move away from the alignment axis in a self-centering manner,inserting the object into the self-centering mechanism, releasing boththe first and second arms, such that the ends of at least the first,second and third arms to move towards the alignment axis in aself-centering manner, and then releasably engage with the object in aself-centering manner.
 58. A self-centering method to retain an objecthaving a center, wherein the self-centering mechanism comprises: a mainbody having a fixed alignment axis and at least a first pivot axis, asecond pivot axis, and a third pivot axis, wherein the fixed alignmentaxis is parallel to at least one of the first pivot, second pivot axis,or third pivot axis, and at least the first pivot, second axis and thirdaxis are all mutually parallel, a first arm rotatable about the firstpivot axis, and having at least one first arm tangential member and atleast one end, a second arm rotatable about the second pivot axis, andhaving at least one second arm tangential member and at least one end, athird arm rotatable about the third pivot axis, and having at least onethird arm tangential member and at least one end, wherein the geometryof at least the first of the first arm tangential member, second armtangential member and third arm tangential member are such that at leastthe first end of each of at least the first, second, and third arm movein a self-centering manner about the fixed alignment axis to retain andalign an object, wherein the method comprises the steps of: pressing thefirst and second arms in conjunction, such that pressing both the firstand second arms causes at least the first end of each of at least thefirst, second and third arms to rotate away from the alignment axis in aself-centering manner, inserting the object into the self-centeringmechanism, releasing both the first and second arms, such that at leastthe first end of each of at least the first, second and third arms torotate towards the alignment axis in a self-centering manner, toreleasably retain and align the object.